The Md. Senate voted unanimously today to pass legislation in response to a 2012 Court of Appeals decision that forced many Maryland dog owners to choose between their pets and their homes. The HSUS now urges legislators to find common ground and pass a compromise bill.

The Humane Society of the United States, the nation’s largest animal protection organization, is pleased to announce that Connecticut state Reps. Auden Grogins, D-Bridgeport, and Diana Urban, D-North Stonington and Stonington, have been selected as Connecticut’s Humane State Legislators for 2012.

The Humane Society of the United States has chosen Uggie, the world famous, scene-stealing Jack Russell terrier from last year’s Academy Award-winning film “The Artist,” to be the spokesdog for its Pets of Valor Award.

Today The Shelter Pet Project, a campaign from The Humane Society of the United States, Maddie’s Fund and the Ad Council to promote shelter pet adoptions, revealed a new ad featuring TODAY anchor Natalie Morales.